Harrington leads in New York

Padraig Harrington has boosted his chances of a wild card pick for next month's Ryder Cup after taking the outright lead at The Barclays in the US.

The three-time Major winner will be relying on an invite from European captain Jose Maria Olazabal when he names his team next Monday.

Harrington has shown his form after carding six birdies in his final eight holes to take the lead during the opening day in New York.

Harrington has finished the first round on seven-under par, one clear of Nick Watney and Gary Christian.

Rory McIlroy had a promising start to the first leg of the season-ending Fed Ex Cup series but he is now back on two-under after 16 holes, while Graeme McDowell carded a five-over par round of 75.